Lexus LBX rewrites luxe entry-class playbook
LEXUS PHILIPPINES launches an all-new model, the LBX, today. The subcompact crossover is the smallest Lexus ever, yet is said to be “a gamechanger that embodies all of Lexus’ values of authenticity, refinement, omotenashi, and engaging and imaginative technology.”
A hybrid electric crossover, the three-letter name of this vehicle is “significant,” according to Lexus Philippines. Nomenclature of its offerings are only comprised of two letters — with the only exception being the LFA supercar. “The choice of the name LBX demonstrates Lexus’ commitment to and trust in its new model. Just as the LFA showed a different side to the brand in terms of attitude and performance, so the LBX will challenge the status quo and redefine what a small car can offer, energizing and expanding the brand’s reach and profile,” the company maintained.
This new entry point to the stable of Lexus is meant to appeal to a younger market, and “those who may not have considered a Lexus before.” It is also meant to be an “attractive proposition” for those thinking of downsizing their ride, or of purchasing a second vehicle.
“Our aim was to challenge the conventional concept of a luxury car. We have thoroughly pursued a driving experience that enables a natural dialogue between the driver and their vehicle, and a design that has a refined presence,” said Lexus Chief Engineer Kunihiko Endoh.
Extensive efforts were made to ensure the constant control, comfort, and confidence of the so-called Lexus Driving Signature are delivered in a small car package. To this end, some revisions were made to the GA-B global platform such as lengthening the wheelbase, widening the track and, increasing body rigidity. Packaging, suspension tuning, braking and steering all play their part in producing a car that reportedly responds instantly and faithfully to the driver’s inputs.
The new powertrain is a selfcharging 1.5-liter hybrid electric system. It is tuned for rewarding performance, with powerful, linear acceleration from the start. This helps deliver low-speed agility suited to demands of urban driving. A new bi-polar nickel-metal hydride hybrid battery provides greater responsiveness from a smaller and lighter package, while extensive measures to address road noise and vibration ensure the kind of calm and quiet on-board experience appropriate for a premium model.
The styling of the LBX gets a “Resolute Look” on its front that reinterprets the iconic spindle grille. While the exterior dimensions are more compact than any other Lexus, the look is muscular and powerful. Inside, the emphasis is on driver engagement with a focused driver’s cockpit based on Lexus’ Tazuna concept — inspired by a rider’s precise use of the reins to control a horse (the meaning of Tazuna in Japanese). The vehicle’s controls and information sources are arranged so that only small movements of the hands and eyes are required for operation, keeping the driver’s attention focused on the road. The cabin has a light, open feel with excellent visibility and an instrument panel that wraps around smoothly into the door panels.
To help maintain a wide, clear view and open cabin feel, the horizontal instrument panel has a clean and simple design. At each side, its form flows into the door panel, giving a sense of wrapping around the front seat occupants, so the feel is expansive yet encompassing. The continuous line created by this design also helps the driver sense the degree of vehicle roll when driving through bends.
The LBX is the first Lexus model to be manufactured at the Iwate plant in eastern Japan, a facility that has benefited from the Toyota Motor Corp. investment to help regenerate a region that suffered devastation from the Tohoku Earthquake and tsunami of 2011.
The LBX is 4,190-mm long, 1,825mm wide, and 1,560-mm high. It has a 2,580-mm wheelbase, with a tight 5.2-m turning radius.
The LBX has a new self-charging full hybrid electric powertrain that is both highly efficient and tuned for the kind of prompt, responsive acceleration that’s characteristic of battery electric power. The total system output is 100kW with peak torque of 185Nm, giving standstillto-100kph time of 9.2 seconds. The 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine has world-class thermal efficiency, supported by high-speed combustion, achieved with technologies evolved from Formula 1 engineering, including a longer stroke, increased valve angle and laser-clad intake valve seats. The ultra-lightweight pistons are designed for performance at high engine revs and have a resin skirt coating that reduces friction with the cylinder wall.
Visit Lexus Manila and Lexus at Mitsukoshi to see the all-new Lexus LBX, priced at P2.968 million. For more information, visit the Lexus website at lexus.com.ph or its social media pages on Facebook and Instagram (@lexusphilippines). Updates and premium services are available through the MyLexus app for both Android and iOS users. Mitsukoshi BGC is located at 8th Ave. corner 36th St. Grand Central Park, North BGC, Taguig.